'Goldmine' shop to shut after 55 years

A DIY store that has been run by the same man for more than 50 years is to close because, he says, banks are refusing to lend to potential buyers.

SX Wallpapers & DIY Supplies was opened 55 years ago by Harry Fulton, 80, and his family and is a thriving shop. But hopes that the DIY store would remain in Essex Road, Islington, have been dashed after buyers were refused credit, according to Mr Fulton.

He is now resigned to selling off the stock and auctioning the premises. He said: "I have been running it for the last year since my son died, but I have had enough. I've got customers who are very interested in buying it but no banks will lend them the money. I don't know why as this place is a little goldmine."

Customer Brian Potter, who has been shopping at SX Wallpapers for many years, said: "It is a great shame. They always have everything and it's more convenient than the big shops."